Hue’s charm isn’t just in its ancient walls and royal tombs—it’s also best experienced from the water. The Perfume River cuts through the city like a ribbon of history, and many tours take advantage of this. Whether you prefer a leisurely dragon boat cruise, a cultural evening dinner, or a full-day adventure exploring imperial sites, Hue offers a boat tour for every type of traveler. We’ve chosen 13 of the best options, including the popular Walking in Imperial City with Optional Dragon Boat that combines a history walk with a relaxing boat ride. These tours give you an authentic taste of Hue’s royal past and natural beauty, all from the comfort of a boat.
For instance, the Hue Private Dragon Boat, Thien Mu Pagoda & Royal Tombs Tour is highly rated for its blend of cultural sites and scenic cruising, while the Dinner Cruise and Music Folk Song offers a charming evening with traditional music and local cuisine. Whatever your interests, Hue’s waterways hold a memorable experience waiting.
Quick Overview
This list features a variety of boat experiences: half-day and full-day tours, private and group cruises, river trips with cultural highlights, and even evening dinner cruises. Some tours focus on royal tombs and Imperial City landmarks, like the Hue Half Day Tour, while others combine biking and boat rides for active travelers, such as the Hue Tombs Tour by Bike & Dragon Boat. The Scenic Dragon Boat Trip stands out for its peaceful scenery and romantic evening options. Each offers a distinctive way to see Hue from the river, with some emphasizing history, others focusing on cuisine or relaxation.
1. Hue Tour: Walking in Imperial City with Optional Dragon Boat
Starting with a walking tour of the Imperial Citadel, this experience offers a detailed look at Hue’s royal architecture and history. The tour includes stops at the Nine Holy Cannons, the Noon Gate, and the Thai Hoa Palace—all significant symbols of Hue’s imperial past. The highlight is the optional dragon boat cruise on the Perfume River, which adds a relaxing water component to your exploration. Rated 5.0 stars from over 500 reviews, travelers praise the knowledgeable guides and the well-paced itinerary. At just $20 per person for around 2.5 hours, it’s a budget-friendly way to combine history, culture, and a scenic boat ride.
Bottom line: Perfect for history lovers who want a compact experience that mixes walking and water. The boat option enhances the experience, especially on a sunny day, and adds a peaceful finish to an active morning.
2. Hue Private Dragon Boat, Thien Mu Pagoda & Royal Tombs Tour
This full-day private tour is ideal if you prefer a personalized experience. It includes a luxurious dragon boat cruise on the Perfume River, visiting the iconic Thien Mu Pagoda—Hue’s most famous temple—and some of the best royal tombs. The guide shares stories about Vietnam’s royal family and the importance of Buddhism in local culture. At 4 to 5 hours, it’s good value for money at $27 per person, especially for travelers who want to avoid crowds and have a flexible schedule. Reviewers mention Viet’s friendly and informative approach, making it a memorable and intimate outing.
Bottom line: An excellent pick for those wanting a comprehensive, private experience with a focus on history and spirituality. It suits travelers with a day to spare who appreciate personalized service.
3. Hue Half Day Tour With Optional Dragon Boat on Perfume River
For around $29, this half-day tour covers Hue’s main sights with an air-conditioned vehicle, making it comfortable and hassle-free. It includes visits to the Imperial Citadel, Thien Mu Pagoda, and some of the royal tombs like Tu Duc and Khai Dinh. The optional dragon boat adds a scenic water perspective, and the tour is private, ensuring a personalized touch. Guests praise guides like Linh, who makes the history come alive, and the balance of sightseeing and relaxation.
Bottom line: Best suited for travelers who want a rundown of Hue’s highlights without a long day. It’s a flexible option combining river cruise and cultural sites.
4. Hue Tombs Tour by Bike & Dragon Boat Cruise on Perfume River
For the active traveler, this 6-7 hour tour combines biking and dragon boat rides. You’ll cycle about 5 km from your hotel to Thien Mu Pagoda, then cruise along the Perfume River to visit the royal tombs. The tour emphasizes learning about Vietnam’s royalty while enjoying scenic river views. Reviewers note Hung and Khue’s friendly, knowledgeable guides and the mix of physical activity and sightseeing. The tour costs $59 and includes lunch, making it a value-packed day.
Bottom line: Ideal for those who enjoy cycling and cultural exploration. It offers a more energetic way to see Hue’s royal history with a scenic river cruise to relax afterward.
5. Dinner Cruise and Music Folk Song on the Perfume River
This evening cruise offers a dinner experience aboard a family-run dragon boat decorated for the occasion. You’ll enjoy Hue specialties, including Bún Bò Huế, while listening to live traditional folk music. The lantern ceremony adds a charming, authentic touch. Priced at $30 for 1.5 hours, it’s a delightful way to end your day with culture and scenic views.
Bottom line: Perfect for those craving a relaxing, authentic dinner combined with local music and river views. It’s a memorable, leisurely experience.
6. Hue Private Dragon Boat (Sunrise/Sunset & Rickshaw Riding)
This short 45-minute private cruise is a great way to see Hue at dawn or dusk. The tour includes sunrise or sunset boat rides and rickshaw rides around the city, providing a blend of water and street-level sights. The guides are known for their friendly service and local insights. Costing only $19, it offers great value for a quick, romantic outing or photo opportunity.
Bottom line: Best for couples or travelers seeking a short, scenic experience with a romantic twist.
7. Hue Dragon Boat Tour: Perfume River, Royal Tombs, Thien Mu Pagoda
This 7-hour tour combines boat cruising with visits to Thien Mu Pagoda and the royal tombs. It emphasizes the poetry and serenity of the river, with the boat providing a peaceful way to see Hue’s scenic banks. The guide shares stories about the history of the pagoda and tombs, making it educational and calming. With a small group and rated 5/5, it’s perfect for quiet contemplation and cultural appreciation.
Bottom line: Suited for travelers who want a relaxed, in-depth water experience paired with cultural insights.
8. Hue City Tour 3 Tomb & Citadel Sightseeing Perfume River By Dragon Boat
This private 9-hour tour is ideal for the full-day explorer. It covers Hue’s royal citadel, three tombs, and includes a scenic boat ride. The itinerary is tailored to your pace, with transfers included. Rated highly for its personalized touch and comprehensive coverage, it’s perfect for first-time visitors wanting an in-depth look.
Bottom line: Best for those with a full day to enjoy Hue’s royal history and water scenery.
9. Huong River Afternoon Tea Cruise Along Hue City
For a relaxing afternoon, this cruise offers afternoon tea on the Huong River. You’ll enjoy tea, cake, and views of the city—from the bustling markets to tranquil pagodas. It’s rated 5/5 and priced at $19.31, making it a relaxing, affordable way to see Hue from the water.
Bottom line: Ideal for travelers seeking a peaceful, elegant break in the middle of the day.
10. Hue: Royal Tombs & Pagoda Tour By Dragon Boat & Private Car
This full-day private tour features luxury transportation, visits to royal tombs, the Citadel, and Thien Mu Pagoda. The boat ride on the Perfume River adds a scenic element, and the guide’s stories make the history vivid. At $23 per person, it provides great value for a tailored experience designed for comfort.
Bottom line: Great for travelers who want personalized, all-inclusive sightseeing with minimal hassle.
11. HUE CITY TOUR With Perfume River Cruise
This private 6-hour tour combines walking through the Imperial City with a short river cruise. The guide shares insights into Hue’s royal architecture and local culture. The highlight is the short cruise that captures the city’s essence from the water. Rated 5/5, it’s a perfect choice for those with limited time but who want a well-rounded experience.
Bottom line: Suitable for travelers eager for a compact, personalized cultural and water tour.
$97.00 per person
12. Dinner cruise on Perfume river and Forbidden city visit
This luxurious 4-hour dinner cruise combines fine dining with a night visit to the Forbidden Purple City. The boat cruise offers a taste of Hue’s royal cuisine, and the night visit adds a mystical atmosphere. Priced at $209, it’s a splurge but offers an exclusive experience suitable for special occasions.
Bottom line: Best for travelers seeking an elegant, once-in-a-lifetime evening experience with outstanding food and ambiance.
$209.00 per person
13. Scenic Dragon Boat Trip On Perfume River – Hue City
Although it has a lower rating (3.5/5), this 5-hour scenic trip offers a calm day away from the city, including dinner on the boat. It focuses on aerial views and peaceful scenes, making it suitable for those wanting a relaxing river experience.
Bottom line: Best for travelers wanting a peaceful, scenic cruise with a simple, no-frills vibe.
$99.00 per person
How to Choose
When selecting a boat tour in Hue, consider your interests, budget, and time available. For a quick, budget-friendly introduction, the Walking in Imperial City & Dragon Boat is perfect. If you want a full-day immersion, the Hue City Tour with Tombs and Citadel offers in-depth sightseeing. For those who love culinary experiences, the Dinner Cruise and Folk Music combines great food with entertainment.
If an active outing appeals, the Bike & Dragon Boat is a perfect mix of exercise and culture. For quiet moments, the Scenic Dragon Boat offers scenic views and relaxation. Remember to book early, especially for private and popular evening cruises, to ensure you get your preferred date.
Final thoughts
Hue’s boat tours offer a diverse array of ways to experience its history, scenery, and culture. From short, scenic cruises perfect for a quick overview to full-day explorations that cover the entire royal landscape, there’s something for every traveler. We recommend the Hue Tour: Walking in Imperial City with Optional Dragon Boat for a budget-friendly start, or splurge on the elegant Dinner Cruise and Folk Song for a special occasion. Booking early is your best bet for securing the most desired time slots, especially during peak season. No matter which you choose, Hue’s waterways promise a memorable glimpse into Vietnam’s regal past and scenic beauty.